Importance of corn grower support for poultry industry

A report by the National Corn Growers Association as emphasised how corn
farmers and livestock producers have enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship
since the very beginnings of animal agriculture in the US - a relationship that
has, among other benefits, meant millions of dollars for livestock and poultry
research and promotion by state corn checkoff organisations.

â€œLivestock and poultry producers have come to rely on the corn industry as
a top source of high quality, nutritional feed,â€ said David Ward, chairman of
NCGA's Production and Stewardship Action Team. â€œIn turn, we have long depended
on the livestock and poultry sector as our number one customer.â€

NCGA says that historically, more than half of the annual US crop has gone
to feed domestic livestock and poultry. Because corn growers have always
recognised the importance of the livestock and poultry industries to their own
livelihoods, they have invested heavily in research and promotion efforts to
advance and protect the interests of America's livestock and poultry
producers.

Livestock producers and corn growers have seen national and state
legislative efforts rewarded following joint visits to their state and national
governmental officials and agencies. NCGA affiliate states declared in the last
three years that state corn checkoff organisations have continued to
substantially increase contributions annually toward livestock and poultry
research and promotion efforts. These projects have covered a wide range of
subjects, ranging from research on utilisation of ethanol co-products, promotion
for expanded meat exports to providing support at local livestock show arenas
and events.